Nigerian law professor and diplomat, Akasoba Duke-Abiola, has accepted her nomination and endorsement by the African Policy and Research Consortium to contest for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Duke-Abiola, the widow of late business mogul and politician Chief Moshood Abiola, formally announced her acceptance in a public statement issued on Saturday in response to the consortium’s endorsement.

The African Policy and Research Consortium comprises government officials, academic scholars, policy strategists, and international development experts drawn from nations across Africa and globally.

Describing the endorsement as a solemn call to service rather than personal recognition, Duke-Abiola stated that her focus would center on advancing global peace, human dignity, justice, and the protection of vulnerable communities, particularly women and children.

Highlighting her academic background, including a doctoral degree in sustainable development focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Duke-Abiola noted that she has initiated wide consultations with political leaders, diplomats, family members, and international stakeholders across Africa and beyond as she prepares for the role.